International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

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Physiotherapy and Children with Disability - A Literature Review

Author(s) Dr. Ngilyang Mica (PT), Prof. Dr. Somsankar Mukherjee
Country India
Abstract Background: Childhood disability affects over 240 children worldwide, posing significant challenges to mobility, independence, and participation. Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of pediatric rehabilitation, aiming to enhance functional ability, prevent secondary complications and promote inclusion.
Objective: This paper explores the roles of physiotherapy in supporting children with disabilities, highlighting its importance, evidence-based interventions, barriers to access and the need for integrated care approach.
Methods: A narrative synthesis of current literature was conducted, drawing on global reports and peer-reviewed studies to examine physiotherapeutic interventions, their effectiveness, and the systemic issues influencing service delivery.
Results: Evidence demonstrated that physiotherapy intervention improves quality of life of children with disability. Early intervention leveraging neuroplasticityis particularly effective in improving long-term outcomes. However, significant disaprities persist, with children in low- and middle- income counties dacing barriers including workforce shortages, limited infrastructure, caregiver burden and sociocultural stigma, integrated family-centered models and community-based rehabilitation programs are shown to enhance accessibility and sustainability, while tele-rehabilitation offers emerging opportunities for service delivery.
Conclusion: Physiotherapy is integral to the health and well-being of children with disabilities, offering both clinical and social benefits. Addressing inequities in access and embedding physiotherapy within inclusive, community-oriented frameworks are essential to maximize its impact. Strengthening evidence-based practice, early intervention, and policy support will further advance pediatric rehabilitation and promote the rights and inclusion of children with disabilities.
Keywords Physiotherapy, Childhood disability, pediatric rehabilitation, Community-based rehabilitation, Accessibility, Barrier.
Field Medical / Pharmacy
Published In Volume 7, Issue 5, September-October 2025
Published On 2025-09-06
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i05.55345

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